Maryland Car Accidents In Construction Zones: Know The Risks And How To Protect Yourself
Maryland roadways are constantly under construction, and each new year brings a new slate of projects. In the long run, they generally help improve local infrastructure and public safety. However, in the short term, they create congestion, confusion, and increase crash risks.
Drivers who aren’t aware of the potential hazards and engage in reckless driving behavior put themselves and everyone on the road in danger. Our experienced Maryland car accident attorneys represent clients in these cases and sees firsthand the devastating harm that can result. Find out more about the risks and how to protect yourself, your passengers, other motorists, and workers when traveling through Maryland road construction zones.
Reckless Driving Increases The Risk of Construction Zone Accidents in Maryland
Road construction plays a major role in improving local roadways and keeping motorists safe. However, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) warns that changes in traffic patterns, narrowed rights-of-way, uneven road surfaces, and other common issues can put drivers in danger.
With the amount of roadwork underway throughout the state, construction zone accidents in Maryland happen regularly. However, while roadwork increases crash risks, reckless driving is often ultimately to blame.
Dangerous behaviors that can jeopardize you and others on the road include:
- Speeding through construction zones, rather than following posted limits.
- Tailgating or weaving between lanes in congested traffic.
- Distracted driving from phones, GPS adjustments, or eating behind the wheel.
- Ignoring flaggers or temporary traffic lights.
- Driving while fatigued or impaired, especially during late-night or early-morning construction.
These behaviors don’t just endanger you and other drivers. They threaten road workers who often have only cones or barrels between them and moving traffic.
Safe Driving Tips for Maryland Construction Zones
The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) warns that while road construction zones are temporary, injuries from crashes and collisions in these areas can cause permanent harm to victims. To protect yourself and others, follow these safety tips:
- Plan ahead: Check with MDOT for construction projects in your area and factor in delays or plan detours.
- Slow down: You face heavy fines for speeding in Maryland construction zones, as it increases the risk of a crash and life-threatening injuries.
- Stay alert: Watch for construction workers, equipment, road changes, and unexpected stops.
- Stay calm: Delays due to road projects are temporary. Injuries due to aggressive driving behavior are not.
Patience and focus can help prevent serious road construction accidents in Maryland, especially in high-traffic construction corridors, such as I-95, I-70, and the Baltimore Beltway.
Injured in a Road Construction Accident? Contact Our Maryland Car Accident Attorneys
Car accident risks increase when traveling through Maryland construction zones, and injuries that result can be severe. If you or someone you love is injured in this type of crash, get the professional legal help you need to file a claim at Berman Sobin Gross LLP.
Our experienced Maryland car accident attorneys protect clients in these cases, hold those at fault accountable, and fight for the maximum compensation you need to recover. Reach out today and request a consultation.
Sources:
ops.fhwa.dot.gov/wz/resources/facts_stats.htm
roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=19
roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/index.aspx?PageId=667
